Outdoor Power Equipment (Lawn Mowers, Snow Blowers, Chain Saws and more) Discussions

I picked up a MTD 31A-3CAD762 two stage blower about a year ago. I had it as a 2nd machine that I left by my in-law's house. It started and ran without issue. When I tried it last year after a wet snowfall about 6-8 inches it stalled out when I hit the snow. A family member was supposed to take it and service it but it never got done. I decided to take it back today and looked at the belts and the auger belt looks worn. I have both belts coming in a few days and will change them out promptly. My issue is evaluating the machine without putting it under a load condition. It will run fine, move forward, and turn the auger. Any way to predict how it will work without actually waiting for a snowfall. It runs smoothly but I am willing to change out the carb if needed.

Easy winter here in NJ so far. I have not run the unit in snow yet since replacing parts. Valve clearance check may happen in the off season.